More than 1,300 runners joined in this year’s Alton Water Run, raising thousands of pounds for four nearby schools.
Those taking part in the 11th annual run on Sunday had a choice of three distances, 10k, 5k and 2k. Money raised will go to Holbrook Academy and Tattingstone, Holbrook and Stutton Primary schools, to pay for equipment and projects.
“It went really well, it was wonderful - we’re really happy,” said chair of the Alton Water Run Fiona Ewart. She co-ordinated the event together with Lisa Dagnall, sales and marketing co-ordinator for South Suffolk Leisure.
The event was organised and marshalled by local volunteers, many of whom are parents, staff and children of the four schools. The warm weather was challenging for the runners but pleasant for the spectators, who enjoyed games, activities and bouncy castles for children.
The Blocks 10k was won by Joshua Sowman in a time of 37 mins 15 secs and the first woman was close behind, Daisy Glover, finishing in 38 mins 13 secs. Francesca Mann (21 mins 33 secs) was the first woman home in the 5k and the men’s race was won by Paul Wain (17 mins 38 secs). Matthew Bennett and Freya Wilcox were first boy and girl home in the 2k.
The full amount raised for the schools has not yet been counted. Many runners also raised money for their chosen charities.
Despite the heat, Suffolk firefighter Dale Mason ran in full gear for the Mind Blue Light Appeal and Calm (Campaign Against Living Miserably). He also recently ran the London Marathon in full kit, in memory of colleague Tony Bickers.
Sally Letman, wife of the head of Holbrook Academy, ran the 5k in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, in memory of a friend, Tim.
Ms Ewart said they were grateful to Anglian Water for allowing the event to be staged at Alton Water reservoir, and to their many sponsors.
The three races were sponsored by Blocks Solicitors, Kingsfleet Wealth and Anglia Research.
Runners from Kingsfleet raised money for Papyrus (Prevention of Young Suicide UK) and there were also collections for this charity.
Coes donated energy gels and bags. “All the bags were biodegradable this year, and so were the cups at our water stations,” Ms Ewart said.
As an unusual touch, the race medals also doubled as bottle openers.
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